Glossary
Operating systems: principles and functions

API (Application Programming Interface )

Interface (set of functions) enabling users or application programs to access the services of an operating system.

Appel système; system call

Entry point for a user program to request a service from the operating system. System calls are included in an API.

Library; library

A set of programs useful in a particular field (mathematics, graphics, etc.), stored by the operating system for integration into applications.

Catalog or directory

In a file management system, a catalog is a grouping of files and other catalogs under a single name.

Data center

Concentration in a single location of a large number of computers sharing the logistics...